THE PAINTER

Part character study and part psychological thriller, Heller's stunning novel captures a few weeks in the life of a man who is haunted by personal losses and a blind rage he can’t control. Narrator Mark Deakins taps into the painter’s deepest self, bringing a full range of emotion to his performance in a way that gives listeners room to form their own reactions. Tuning into the rhythm of the prose, Deakins's reading flows no matter the nature of the scene—from a frenzied painting session in the art studio to a contemplative afternoon on a trout stream and from the violence of men to the sweetness of love. His respectful narration enlivens the story yet keeps the spotlight fully on the author's stark prose and vivid descriptions. C.B.L. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2014]